The German proverb "Getroffene Hunde bellen" – literally translated as "hit dogs bark" – is used to describe a situation where someone reacts defensively to a statement. The saying suggests that such a reaction implies the accusation holds truth. Essentially, if someone feels compelled to vehemently deny or attack a claim, it's because they are likely guilty of the very thing they're protesting. The proverb highlights a psychological response to being confronted with wrongdoing. It implies that genuine innocence wouldn't require such a strong defensive posture. This concise expression offers a cultural insight into how accusations and reactions are perceived in German-speaking contexts. It’s a widely understood idiom signifying guilt through disproportionate reaction.